Experience two of the Northern Territory’s lesser-known natural attractions this spring.
Tjuwaliyn (Douglas) Hot Springs Park, Darwin
The Tjuwaliyn (Douglas) Hot Springs Park is a drawcard all year round. Its thermal hot springs and cooler owing waters will keep you blissed out for your entire stay. The hot springs are located on the lands of the Wagiman people, and Wagiman women have joined with Parks and Wildlife to manage and maintain the park.
There are several sacred areas on site, and traditional owners continue to perform ceremonies on the land. Visitors should be respectful of the cultural and natural significance of the hot springs, and pay special attention to signage, as only women are permitted to enter some sacred areas. Along with swimming (in designated areas), visitors can also camp and bushwalk at the springs, with fire pits, public toilets, barbecues and picnic areas available.
Crocodiles, everywhere!
While many people visiting the Northern Territory do their best to avoid crocodiles, seeking them out can provide some of the most memorable and unique experiences of your trip.
See freshwater and saltwater crocodiles in wildlife parks, national parks, rivers and museums, and marvel at these ancient-looking predators. Visitors to Darwin can spot crocodiles in the river systems around the city, but if you want a really close-up view, take a crocodile eco cruise, join a feeding tour, or cradle a baby croc in your arms!
Kakadu National Park is home to well over 10,000 crocodiles, and the safest way to see them is on a crocodile- spotting guided cruise at the Mary River wetlands and floodplain, which is home to the world’s highest concentration of saltwater crocodiles.
If the thought of real, live crocodiles sets your heart a flutter, perhaps opt for a visit to the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) instead, where you can get an understanding of the history of crocodiles in Darwin, and their relationship with the locals. You’ll also find the mummified body of Sweetheart, a famous Darwin crocodile that measured an impressive 5.1 metres long, and weighed 780 kilograms!
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